Aston Villa are in pre-season action for the first time ahead of the 2023/24 campaign on Saturday as they take on League Two side Walsall at Poundland Bescot Stadium.
Unai Emery’s men returned for testing at Bodymoor Heath last weekend and have been put through their paces ever since in preparation for their first friendly encounter.
Fans will be in attendance for the fixture which is the last in England until the Villans return to Poundland Bescot Stadium on August 3, to take on Serie A giants Lazio.
It’s difficult to work out who exactly will get the nod from Emery for this weekend’s clash but it’s likely a number of young players will feature rather than regular starters.
With that in mind, we’ve had our best go at predicting the starting lineup for the trip to Walsall, with some exciting additions brought in for game time. See below.
5. LB - Ben Chrisene
Just 19 years of age but has been pictured in training preparations ahead of this clash and is likely to be handed some minutes. | Getty Images
6. CM - Tim Iroegbunam
Another of the youngsters spotted impressing Emery during training sessions recently, Iroegbunam could start following his loan at Queens Park Rangers. | Getty Images
7. CM - Douglas Luiz
The player of the season last term, Luiz offers some guidance for Iroegbunam and should control the midfield to allow others to have more freedom on the ball. | Getty Images
8. RM - John McGinn
Should slot in like he’s never been gone at right midfield. Youri Tielemans hasn’t been spotted in training pictures just yet, so makes it easier for McGinn to get in. | Getty Images